Journal of Allergy & Therapy

Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK

Biography

I love my current role in Global Studies at the University of Sussex where I support the administrative processes for PhD researchers and applicants. Our doctoral researchers cover the subject areas of anthropology, geography, migration, human rights, African studies, international development and international relations. I have a background in both scientific research and administration. My research has mostly covered chronic illnesses such as asthma, allergies and heart disease. I’ve also worked on projects looking at interventions in alcohol consumption and consciousness related to mental health. Publications can be viewed below.


 

Publications

• Research Article   
  The Experience of Being Tested for Allergies: The Views of Children and Their Parents
  Author(s): Helen Smith*, Clare Brown, Annalee Robertson, Laura Stuttaford, Rabia Rashid and Christina J Jones
  
  Background: Children with suspected allergies can be tested for IgE sensitivities with in vivo or in vitro testing, but parents’ and childrens’ experiences of these different allergy test modalities have not been studied. Objective: To investigate parents’ and childrens’ experiences and views of allergy testing (Skin Prick Testing (SPT) and allergen-specific IgE blood tests). Methods: Qualitative study of children and their parents attending a paediatric allergy clinic. Semi-structured interviews were conducted by telephone using an interview guide that explored their experience of allergy testing. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic content analysis was performed. Results: 16 parents and 6 children were interviewed. The characteristics of skin prick tests .. View more»
  

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